I am a musicphile and I love listening to whatever type of music suits my current mood. In addition, I am/was a classically-trained flutist and being immersed in classical music this way has given me an even deeper appreciation for the genre.
I love a lot of things about it. One, it’s highly emotionally expressive, yet, without words, you’re able to take and interpret it as you like. It uses your imagination to do this. Another thing is that the instruments and the mastery of their players are highlighted, so generally when you hear a classical piece, it’s played by people who have toiled to be one with their instruments and their passion comes through. Some classical pieces are so moving, so stirring, they can induce goosebumps or tears due to their overwhelming beauty, or even get you riled up and make you feel energetic.
If I had my laptop and could look through my classical collection, I’d have a lot more recommendations, but I’ll link some of my favorite pieces. @gailcalled has great suggestions; “The Four Seasons” is one of my favorites.
* Johann Sebastian Bach – Cello Suite No.1 Prelude in G Major
* Rossini – William Tell Overture (I particularly like the conclusion, which I’ve linked, and I pretty much guarantee you’ve heard this one before!)
* Tchaikovsky – 1812 Overture
* Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Symphony 40 in G minor (I’m probably partial to this because I’ve actually played this one)
* Pachelbel – Canon in D
* Mozart – Bassoon Concerto B flat major Movement 1 & Movement 3 (I played bassoon briefly, as well, and I am so in love with the sound!)
Anyway, I’ve got loads more to recommend if you’d like, but I don’t want to overwhelm you. :)